The JOBS for Success Act, sponsored by Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Human Resources Subcommittee Chairman Adrian Smith (R-NE), reauthorizes the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program in order to help close the jobs gap – the difference between employers’ increasing demand for workers in a strong economy and the relatively low percent of working-age individuals in the workforce.

Chairman Brady said at the start of the markup:

“We’re not going to give up on anyone, because everyone deserves a chance to accomplish their hopes and dreams, and right now the more than 7 million men who aren’t in the workforce can’t do that without a job.

“The JOBS for Success Act restores the promise of the 1996 welfare reforms by requiring states to engage everyone who is work eligible, meaning no family in need gets left behind.”

This bill takes important steps to reform this welfare program to close the jobs gap. Specifically, the legislation:

Extends the TANF program for five years, as well as child care and related programs;

Ensures no one gets ignored or is left on the sidelines by requiring states to engage with every individual;

Measures work outcomes to hold states accountable for the intended purpose of the program;

Limits the use of funds to families who truly need it the most by requiring monthly income to be below 200% of the poverty level;

Focuses on work and activities that lead to work, ultimately creating the building blocks for people’s success; and

Renames the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to Jobs and Opportunity with Benefits and Services (JOBS), to underscore our commitment to these reforms.

The next stop for this important welfare reform legislation is consideration by the full House of Representatives. CMS will continue to watch this story as it develops.